Local High Needs Funding (LHNF)

Local High Needs Funding

The Local High Needs Funding system is designed to support children and young people (CYP) with emerging high needs, or with needs that fall outside the EHCP process. It is managed locally within the nine DSPL areas although funding is paid out centrally into school budgets. This is top-up funding to provide the cost of provision which exceeds the first £6000 which should be provided from the school’s Notional SEN Budget. It is for interventions and provision which go beyond quality first teaching and reasonable adjustments.

Application Process

Schools and Early Years settings should apply using the forms and guidance below.

LHNF Panel Dates	Closing Date for Applications
Thursday 20^th November 2025	4^th Nov (5pm)
Thursday 22nd January 2026	8th January (5pm)
Wednesday 11th February 2026	27th Jan (5pm)
Wednesday 18th March	3rd March (5pm)

Please note that all applications must be sent via SCHOOLS FX to dspl9lhnf@bournehall.herts.sch.uk

Key Documents for Schools and Early Years Settings

LHNF application form

High Needs Funding Documents on The Grid

LHNF Handbook 2025/26 Early Years SEND Funding